Keeping a Jesus heart in an Upside-Down World

Overwhelmed

On Palm Sunday, I stood beside my sweetheart and joined with other worshipers in singing of the death and resurrection of Jesus. We sang several songs, but one song, one phrase, has continued to echo in my heart.

It’s from Chris Tomlin’s I Will Rise:

Jesus has overcomeAnd the grave is overwhelmedThe victory is wonHe is risen from the dead

“And the grave is overwhelmed…”

We know what it’s like to be overwhelmed. Life is messy and stuff happens—sickness, betrayal, loss, financial hardship, (and the list goes on). Sometimes it seems we can’t take one. More. Thing.

But the overwhelmed Mr. Tomlin sings of is completely different. And it puts our earthly troubles in perspective.

Jesus was crucified. As He hung on that cross, He died a horrible, brutal death. If the story ended there, it would be the greatest tragedy ever suffered. And God’s people would be the greatest fools who ever lived.

But it didn’t end there. The moment of death, hope was born. Three days later, the power of the Living God OVERWHELMED the grave and Jesus emerged as our Risen Savior.

The grave was no match for the Son of the Living God.

If our hope in Christ is for this life alone, we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:19-20).

It’s not often we celebrate being overwhelmed. But the time is now. When we receive Christ as Lord and choose to walk with Him, we are overcome with His strength and power. We are bathed in hope and joy.

This week, I have enjoyed several articles about the power of Easter in the Christian’s life. The following have especially touched my heart: